There was a time when Ethiopia’s Somali Region was almost exclusively associated with conflict, insecurity and underdevelopment. It was a region that rarely featured in conversations about economic growth or effective governance.

Today, however, a visit to the region tells a remarkably different story. Travelling through the region’s villages, towns and cities, we witnessed a region that has undergone a remarkable transformation.

Modern roads, expanding towns, thriving businesses, improved public services and an atmosphere of peace now define much of what visitors experience. The Somali Region has not only changed its image but its trajectory too.

This change offers valuable lessons for Kenyan counties, especially those in the northern region, as they seek to accelerate development while strengthening governance and social cohesion.

The story of the Somali Region demonstrates that visionary leadership, political stability and strategic public investment can transform even those places once considered less developed. It is a reminder that progress is possible when governments focus on servant leadership, community engagement and strategic planning.

The first lesson is the importance of security. Security is the cornerstone of development, and no economic price can be put on it. There is no doubt that when security prevails, investor confidence improves, hence an exponential rise in development.

As we travelled through cities such as Jigjiga, Godeey, Qabridahar and Dhegexbuur, we witnessed how security has improved. People can now move freely at any time, businesses operate with confidence and public spaces remain vibrant throughout the day and into the evening.

What becomes evident to any visitor to all the towns and cities is the calm atmosphere, orderly streets and active commercial life. This shows peace is not just about the absence of conflict, but the foundation upon which development can take place.

This is an important lesson for Kenya's counties because sustainable development flourishes where citizens and visitors feel safe, institutions function effectively and government enjoys public trust.

The second lesson is the importance of good governance. Development does not happen by chance; rather, it requires leaders who can articulate a clear vision, mobilise institutions and ensure that public resources are translated into visible improvements in people's lives.

Moreover, the leadership has to be fully engaged and hands-on in ensuring projects are delivered on time and on budget. This can be done through constant supervision and field visits.

On our trip, we witnessed a leadership that does not compromise when it comes to keeping contractors on their toes. Their awareness about the many project timelines, including hospitals, roads, colleges, agriculture and many others, was impressive. Kenya's county governments could benefit from adopting the same focus and approach to implementation.

Nowhere is this transformation more evident than in Jigjiga. The regional capital has evolved into one of the most attractive and organised cities in eastern Ethiopia. Wide paved roads, landscaped roundabouts, pedestrian walkways, traffic lights, well-maintained public spaces and modern government buildings have transformed the city's appearance.

The improvements have enhanced mobility, strengthened commerce and created a city that inspires confidence among residents, investors and visitors alike. Counties across Kenya can draw an important lesson in investing in urban planning and public infrastructure to improve both economic performance and civic pride.

A third lesson is that development should extend beyond the main commercial centre/town. While Jigjiga has become the face of the region's transformation, progress is also evident in other towns. Godeey, a town on the far south east of the region, is capitalising on its strategic location and agricultural potential to position itself as a future centre for agro-processing and energy production.

Other towns, such as Qabridahar, are expanding agricultural production and encouraging innovative enterprises such as commercial poultry and bee farming. Historic trading centres such as Birqod and Warder continue to play vital roles in regional commerce, while Dhagaxbuur has strengthened its importance as an administrative hub.

This balanced approach to regional development ensures that opportunities are distributed more widely rather than concentrated in a single urban centre.

Equally notable is the region's emphasis on creating an enabling environment for business. Markets are active, commercial activity is expanding and local entrepreneurs are responding to growing opportunities.

The hospitality sector is developing rapidly, particularly in Jigjiga, where new hotels, restaurants, cafés and tourism projects reflect increasing investor confidence.

The planned tourism resort further illustrates a willingness to diversify the regional economy and promote the Somali Region as a destination for both business and leisure. This is an indication that government investment can stimulate private-sector growth and create new employment opportunities.

The preservation of cultural identity was another highlight of what we witnessed. The mantra of the leadership is that the adoption of modernity should not lead to cultural erosion. In that sense, rather than allowing development to erase local traditions, the region has successfully combined modern infrastructure with its rich Somali heritage.

Historic towns such as Warder and Birqod continue to celebrate their cultural significance while participating in economic growth. This balance between tradition and progress strengthens community identity and creates unique opportunities for tourism, investment and cultural exchange.

The greatest lesson from the Somali Region is that transformation begins with leadership that believes change is possible and is committed to delivering it. Vision alone is insufficient, but it must be accompanied by effective institutions, sound planning, public accountability through supervision and consistent implementation.

The progress visible across the Somali Region reflects what can happen when government focuses on practical results that directly improve the lives of citizens.

Kenya's counties do not need to replicate the Somali Region's development model in every detail. Each county has its own context, opportunities and priorities.

However, the principles that underpin the region's progress are universal, including good governance, investment in infrastructure, balanced regional development, support for enterprise, effective public institutions, and leadership that places servant leadership and service delivery at the centre of governance. These are lessons worth studying.